© KLM Aerocarto
The Provincial Government Building of North Brabant in ’s-Hertogenbosch was designed by Hugh Maaskant and completed in 1971. The building was conceived as the administrative headquarters of the province and became one of Maaskant’s largest government projects.
The complex is composed of a strong horizontal public and representative base combined with a prominent high-rise tower. This organisation reflects the distinction between public functions and administrative workplaces.
Maaskant’s architecture expresses the confidence of the post-war period. Concrete, glass and steel are used in a clear structural and functional composition, while the scale of the building reflects the growing size and complexity of government organisations.
The project initially met considerable resistance because of its scale and cost. Over time, however, the building became an established landmark of ’s-Hertogenbosch and an important symbol of the province.
The building has since been adapted to contemporary working methods. Its interior has been opened up to encourage interaction between politicians, civil servants and visitors, while the tower has been adapted to modern digital working environments.
The Provincial Government Building demonstrates Maaskant’s ability to combine monumental civic architecture with the practical requirements of a large modern organisation.
